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Cypress Grove Trail

A nice loop through the cypress trees to many great views of coves below.

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Rating: 5 out of 5 by EveryTrail members

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1 miles

Duration: Less than 1 hour

Family Friendly

Overview :
This 1-mile loop is a favorite among park visitors because it offers great views and a close look at the area's famous Cypress trees, ... more »which naturally grow in only one other place in the world: Carmel Bay.

The hike is relatively flat with views of headland cove, pinnacle cove, and cypress cove with 2 very short trails to get closer to the views. On a clear day you can see sea lions on sea lion rock and even the other side of monterey bay near Santa Cruz. less «

Points of Interest

There is a parking lot near the trailhead. On busy days, if this lot is full, keep driving along the main road and you will find a turnoff for more parking.

2. Headland Cove

Soon after the start of your hike you will have views of headland Cove to your left with Sea Lion Rocks in the distance. You may even hear the sea lions barking from their rocks.

3. Allan Memorial Grove

This grove is dedicated to A.M. Allan who worked to protect this cypress grove. It was given as a gift in memory of Allan and his wife after Point Lobos became part of the state park system in 1933.

Today, this grove is only one of two naturally growing groves of the Monterey Cypress trees in the world (the other being in Carmel Bay at Cypress ... MorePoint). In fact, the original reason for acquiring this land was to protect these gnarled trees.Less

4. Pinnacle Cove

Half way through the hike you will reach Pinnacle Cove. The point to your left with the lone tree on it is called South Point, and the rocks further from the shore to your right is called The Pinnacle.

5. North Point

Before heading back, take the short trail to your left for a view of North Point. On a clear day you may also be able to see the other side of Monterey Bay far in the distance to the north.

6. Cypress Cove

On your loop back there is a short trail leading down to Cypress Cove. Here you will see another beautiful cove with tall cliffs on the other side and waves crashing on the rocks below. For another view of this cove, you can turn left when you finish the hike and follow the Old Veteran Trail.

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